Private Rouen, Giverny Day trip from Paris with Michelin Lunch

Discover Normandy’s Artistic and Medieval Treasures on a Private Day Trip from Paris

Imagine waking up in Paris and setting off on a day that combines the serene beauty of Claude Monet’s gardens with the medieval splendor of Rouen’s Gothic cathedrals. This private tour, priced at around $664.95 per person, offers a relaxed 12-hour journey with personalized attention, making it ideal for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone craving an authentic glimpse of Normandy’s highlights. Not only do you get to explore Monet’s iconic water lily gardens, but you also enjoy a gourmet meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in Rouen’s historic streets.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances culture with comfort. The private vehicle ensures a smooth ride through Normandy’s picturesque countryside, and the guided visits mean you won’t miss any of the key sights. Plus, the included museum entry and exquisite lunch make it great value for a full day of sightseeing. That said, be prepared for a fairly packed schedule—if you prefer slow, lingering visits, this might feel a bit brisk.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive yet personalized experience without the hassle of planning individual transportation or tickets. It’s perfect for those who appreciate expert-guided commentary and enjoy sampling local cuisine in charming historic settings. Whether you’re a first-timer to Normandy or simply want to make the most of a day outside Paris, this trip delivers a well-rounded taste of the region’s artistic and medieval charms.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private tour allows for a tailored visit with your own guide, focusing on your interests.
• Authentic Cultural Sights: From Monet’s gardens to Rouen’s Gothic architecture, this trip offers genuine Norman highlights.
• Comfortable Travel: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle, making the day smooth and enjoyable.
• Included Meals and Entries: Gourmet lunch at a Michelin restaurant plus skip-the-line access to Monet’s house add real value.
• Flexible Free Time: Both in Giverny and Rouen, you’ll have moments to explore independently.
• Ideal for Art and History Enthusiasts: The stops are carefully chosen to appeal to those who love Impressionism and medieval Europe.

A Deep Dive into the Normandy Day Trip

This private day trip is designed to bring you the essence of Normandy in one manageable package. Starting early with a hotel pickup at 8:00 am, the tour is thoughtfully scheduled to maximize sightseeing while maintaining comfort.

Transportation and Overall Comfort

Traveling in a Mercedes E220 business class car or a minivan, depending on your group size, the ride from Paris is relaxed. The journey to Giverny takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to settle in and listen to your guide’s engaging commentary about French history and Impressionism. This private vehicle setup means you avoid crowded buses, giving you the flexibility to enjoy the scenery and your guide’s insights at your own pace.

Giverny and Monet’s Gardens

Arriving at Giverny around 9:15 am, you’ll visit Claude Monet’s historic house and gardens, with skip-the-line entry included. Spending approximately 1.5 hours here, you’ll step into the same spaces Monet painted, walking through the lush gardens and marveling at the Water Lily Pond, which Monet made famous worldwide. Your guide will likely highlight how Monet’s surroundings inspired some of his most beloved works.

From the reviews, we see that visitors frequently mention the guide’s knowledgeable and passionate explanations, which bring Monet’s life and art vividly to life. One reviewer noted that their guide, Ilya, “knew exactly the right spots to delight our eyes,” which suggests a tour that’s both informative and engaging.

Following this, you’ll have about an hour of free time to explore Giverny’s charming village—its flowered houses, art galleries, and cafes. Many travelers recommend visiting the Impressionists museum, which adds context to Monet’s work and his influence on art history.

Transition to Rouen and the Michelin Lunch

After a scenic drive of about an hour, you’ll arrive in Rouen for a gourmet lunch at La Couronne, the oldest French restaurant dating back to 1345. The lunch, a three-course meal, is included in the price and garners praise for its classic French cuisine and historic ambiance. As one reviewer mentioned, La Couronne has hosted numerous celebrities and artists—an authentic experience that connects you directly with Normandy’s culinary traditions.

Exploring Rouen’s Medieval Charm

Post-lunch, the tour shifts to a guided walking tour of Rouen, lasting around an hour and fifteen minutes. You’ll visit the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, which Monet painted and captured in many of his artworks. The city is renowned for its bell towers and Gothic architecture, and your guide will point out highlights like the Old Market area, famed as the place of Joan of Arc’s execution, along with the medieval clock on the Gros-Horloge.

The reviews praise guides like Valerie for being knowledgeable, articulate, and engaging, which makes the history and architecture come alive. After the guided tour, there’s ample free time to browse local shops, absorb the medieval ambiance, or revisit favorite spots at your leisure.

Return to Paris

The journey back starts around 5:30 pm, and after approximately 2.5 hours on the road, you arrive back in Paris around 8:00 pm, just in time for a relaxed evening.

The Value of the Tour

This experience offers a lot for the price, including skip-the-line access, a Michelin meal, and the benefit of a private guide. The attention to detail ensures you get tailored insights, making the day more meaningful than simply ticking off sights on a bus tour.

However, it is a full day, and with the packed schedule—visiting Monet’s gardens, enjoying a gourmet lunch, walking around Rouen—it may be less suitable for travelers who prefer slow-paced trips or want more time at each location. The cost, while higher than a group tour, reflects the exclusivity, personalized service, and included meals.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re an art enthusiast eager to see Monet’s gardens in person, or a history lover wanting an authentic medieval experience in Rouen, this trip checks many boxes. It’s also excellent for those who value comfort and personalized service, and prefer a flexible itinerary with a knowledgeable guide. Families or small groups will appreciate the private setting, and those interested in French cuisine will find the Michelin lunch to be a highlight.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making your day seamless and stress-free.

How long is the drive from Paris to Giverny?
The drive is approximately 1.5 hours, covering roughly 70 km, in a private air-conditioned vehicle.

Are tickets to Monet’s house included?
Yes, skip-the-line admission to Fondation Claude Monet is included, ensuring you skip long queues.

Can I explore Giverny or Rouen on my own?
Absolutely. The tour includes free time in both locations, allowing for independent exploration.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, guided visits, museum entry, the three-course Michelin lunch, and bottled water.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving flexibility if your plans change.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific details aren’t provided, the private setting and flexible schedule make it adaptable for families, especially those interested in art and history.

To sum it up, this private Rouen and Giverny day trip offers a thoughtful mix of art, history, and gourmet dining—delivered in a comfortable, personalized setting. It’s perfect for travelers who want in-depth insights from knowledgeable guides and enjoy exploring at their own pace. Though it involves a fair amount of traveling and a full schedule, the experience promises a memorable glimpse into Normandy’s artistic and medieval heartland, especially suited for those eager to combine cultural richness with the convenience of private transport and guided expertise.